Mercer Times

Internationally renowned pianist Jonathan Biss, known for his recording of Beethoven’s 32 piano sonatas and his audiobook memoir, "Unquiet: My Life with Beethoven," is set to take the stage at Princeton University Concerts for an event titled "Anxiety, Depression and Music" on April 24. In his memoir, Biss opens up about his struggles with anxiety and how music, particularly Beethoven's compositions, played a role in both exacerbating and alleviating his mental health issues.

Reflecting on his early career, Biss shared, "When I was 21, I wouldn't have had the vocabulary to say, 'I have an issue with anxiety.' I thought, maybe that's just a natural part of being a performer." He acknowledged the detrimental impact of suppressing his feelings, leading to intensified anxiety over the years. Biss confessed to experiencing imposter syndrome and a pivotal moment during a 2019 performance where he had a panic attack on stage.

The upcoming Healing with Music event will feature Biss performing works by Schubert and Schumann, alongside author Adam Haslett, who will read excerpts from his novel "Imagine Me Gone" that delves into intergenerational mental illness. Biss expressed anticipation for the event, emphasizing the importance of discussing mental health struggles openly. He encouraged others facing similar challenges, stating, "Don't hide away from the thing that gives you discomfort, the feelings that are scary."

Princeton University Concerts' Healing with Music series, spearheaded by Marna Seltzer and Dasha Koltunyuk, aims to explore the intersection of personal stories and music as a means of healing and resilience. The events feature various musical artists sharing how music has helped them navigate difficult times, with a focus on fostering a supportive community.

Deborah Amos, a Ferris Professor of Journalism in Residence at Princeton, praised the impactful conversations facilitated by the Healing with Music series. She recalled a memorable moment during a previous event with musician Jon Batiste, where the audience engaged in a collective sing-along, underscoring the transcendent power of music in uniting individuals in healing.

As Biss prepares to share his journey with anxiety and music at the upcoming event, his message to those struggling resonates with a call for embracing discomfort and acknowledging one's reality. Through the Healing with Music initiative, Princeton University Concerts continues to offer a platform for artists and audiences to connect through shared experiences of resilience and healing.